Headlines

The Ranger

Enzi says he won't necessarily adhere to Norquist tax pledge

Nov 30, 2012 - The Associated Press

CHEYENNE -- Sen. Mike Enzi is among the vast majority of House and Senate Republicans who have signed a pledge not to vote for any tax increases, but said it's a bad idea for lawmakers to make the commitment, even if they agree with the premise.

Enzi said Thursday he will abide by his oath of office but won't sign or be bound by any lawmaker pledges, including the Americans for Tax Reform pledge championed by conservative activist Grover Norquist.

The pledge calls for opposing increases to marginal income tax rates and to oppose any net cuts to tax deductions or credits unless the moves are offset by reduced tax rates.

Enzi signed it during his first Senate campaign in 1996 but has not signed any pledges since, said his spokesman, Dan Head.

Part of the problem, Head said by e-mail, is that pledges can be open to interpretation and the meaning can change over time.